The search to replace fired Ohio State University marching band director Jonathan Waters continues. Barry Houser from the University of Illinois and Corey Spurlin from Auburn University were both named finalists in the search. Both candidates removed their name from consideration after their on campus visits and meetings with students, faculty, and staff.

College of Arts and Sciences Executive Dean and Vice Provost David Manderscheid says, “As is our practice, in order to maintain the integrity of the search, we will not publicly discuss the details of the process as it continues to progress.

Manderscheid continues, “We have identified a number of highly qualified candidates who are under consideration. As the search continues, the band remains under the capable direction of the interim leadership team.

Spurlin, the latest finalist to remove his name from consideration, told Auburn marching band students he is excited to lead them this upcoming fall in an email sent on Monday.

NBC4 first reported sources close to the Ohio State search were concerned Spurlin would remove his name from consideration last Friday. An Ohio State spokesman declined to provide new details on Friday or Monday.

NBC4 has obtained an email sent to Ohio State marching band students by Ohio State College of Arts and Sciences Divisional Dean Mark Shanda.

Shanda told students, “By now you are likely aware that the two finalists for the Associate Director of Bands/Director of Marching and Athletic Bands who visited campus recently have decided to remain at their current academic institutions. While disappointing for all who are invested in this process, this is a relatively common situation in high profile searches.”

Shanda mentioned the search to replace Jonathan Waters is ongoing, “The search committee will be meeting tomorrow [Wednesday] afternoon to continue its work.”

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